Friday, November 24, 2006

A Time to Give Thanks

We've come to that time of year, again, where we take some time to list things for which we are thankful. Well, I'm thankful for my family and my friends. I'm especially thankful for my "second family," the Fowlers. I've known them for 6 years now. From the first time I met them they made me feel like I belonged with them and I now try to set aside one holiday each year to spend with them.

This year, we went to Papa Mike's (Fowler) parents' home with the rest of that side of the family. Pop Pop asked us all to share (if we wanted to) the person who has influenced us the most in our lives. I had just gotten off the phone with my biggest influence when it came to be my turn. I kinda had a hard time naming my influence and expounding upon the subject because I don't know that I'll have that person around too terribly much longer. You see, my dad is my greatest influence and I believe he's nearing the last seasons of his life. He's been an inspiration for me for a very long time, but not only for me. He has reached countless numbers of people for the sake of Christ and still has a strong impact on so many. His quiet confidence and pleasant demeanor, along with his soft-spokenness, are all traits that I have tried to mimic in my life. I also picked up his love for good story-telling, and his stubbornness along the way. He's one of the most patient and resilient men I've ever met and I hope I can be like him when I grow up. He's a great man and it will be sad when it's his time to go home, but I'm ready to celebrate his life now and later on. Therefore, I hereby proclaim that B.C. Brannon is the most influential person in my life. I hope you take some time to figure out who's been influential to you and, if you have the means, tell them about it.

Peace, love, and Chocolate